I recommend
Word After Word After Word by Patricia MacLachlan. It is a very short chapter book, but I think people of all ages would enjoy it (elementary through adult.) It is pretty much about how everybody has something unique to say...and has a story inside them to write.
MacLachlan, who wrote the
Sarah Plain and Tall series, among other books, is a very poetic writer. Her sparse words always have a powerful impact. I also love her two picture books:
All the Places to Love and
What You Know First.
I think
Word After Word After Word would also make a good read-aloud for a family, or a classroom, especially tied in with a creative writing unit or activity.
I have been reading
The House of Dies Drear to write questions for the Lenihan/MACS Battle of the Books. I can't WAIT to finish this book...I'm not a fan! It is a mystery that seems to be resolving like a Scooby-Doo episode but without the funny parts. Oh well...
